Micromechanical finite element modeling of long fiber reinforced thermoplastics

Long fiber reinforced thermoplastics are promising candidates for the mass production of lightweight components. In order to predict their microstructure-dependent mechanical properties, a novel procedure for the generation of a representative volume element is developed. The approach mimics the pressing process during the fabrication of the material by compression molding. The model is experimentally validated with respect to different mechanical properties, including elasticity, creep and damage.